The knight now goes to d5, gaining a tempo by attacking the queen. White's position is comfortable and easier to play, although the advantage is not as big as I thought.
8... d8e7 A new move. To be honest, I don't quite understand what advantage Black has in delaying the inevitable moves that are the exchange on d5 or 0-0. 9. d5e6 Aronian decides to exploit Black's move order. Taking the knight to g3 or f4 and then completing development is also playable. 9... f7e6 This capture is necessary, since it's not easy to defend the d6-pawn after 10. c1f4 Forcing Black to advance the pawn to e5 in order to protect d6. 10... e6e5 